Presentation’s World Languages Department offers four years of French and Spanish instruction. In all levels we practice the four essential components of language: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Knowledge of the cultural aspects relative to each language is also studied.
A minimum of two years of foreign language is required for the college-bound students. Entry into upper level courses (level III or higher) requires permission of a language instructor. Students wishing to have experience in both languages may opt to take two years of one language and then switch to take two years of the other language.
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French I Spanish I |
These courses are introductory courses. They assume that the student has had no previous background in the language. Basic concepts are covered, including present tense verbs, greetings, descriptions, pastime activities, family members, weather, and school vocabulary. Students are expected to listen to and speak the language as often as possible to develop their skills. |
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French II Spanish II |
These courses build on concepts covered in the level I courses. Students will cover irregular verbs as well as how to form the simple past tense. Other grammatical topics to be covered include adverbs of time and frequency, reflexive verbs, and commands. Speaking will be practiced more, and listening activities will be more detailed. There will be short writing projects as well as reading activities. |
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French III Spanish III |
These courses are more advanced courses, and student work will reflect this. There will be more emphasis on speaking and listening skills. Students will learn more advanced verb and grammar rules. Vocabulary topics will include future plans (schooling and career), expressing reciprocal actions, long-term and recent past activities, and comparison expressions. |
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Honors French IV Honors Spanish IV |
These Honors courses are advanced level courses. While some review will occur, vocabulary and grammar from previous levels is expected to have been basically mastered. There will be increased stress on proper pronunciation of the target language, and activities will be incorporated to help students increase their vocabulary base. There will be extensive reading as well as focus on developing writing skills. Students are expected to use the target language as often as possible. |
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AP Spanish V |
AP Spanish is the highest level language course offered at Presentation. In it students will be prepared for the AP exam in the language. Students will practice impromptu scenarios in speaking as well as listen to real world dialogs, news reports, etc. to improve listening skills. Reading and writing skills will be practiced in depth on a range of topics, and vocabulary activities will be incorporated to increase the scope of the student’s language comprehension and use. The class will be conducted in the target language, and students are expected to communicate in the target language at all times. |